Ottawa: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is grappling with growing discontent within his Liberal Party following the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. A close ally revealed on Tuesday that Trudeau is reflecting on complaints from party legislators about his leadership.
A separate Liberal parliamentarian criticized Trudeau, stating he was “delusional” if he believed he could lead the party into the next election, scheduled for October 20 next year. Polls currently indicate a significant defeat for the Liberals, with the opposition Conservatives poised to gain a commanding lead.
A close ally of Justin Trudeau said that the Canadian Prime Minister is reflecting on complaints about his leadership. Members of his ruling Liberal Party are unhappy after his finance minister Chrystia Freeland abruptly stepped down days ago https://t.co/nFL7WkZXwb pic.twitter.com/6RChDkUezD
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 18, 2024
Freeland’s Resignation Sparks Crisis
Freeland’s resignation on Monday, accompanied by a scathing letter criticizing Trudeau’s leadership, has triggered one of the most severe crises of his tenure since taking office in 2015. Following her departure, Trudeau convened an emergency meeting with his parliamentary caucus, already uneasy over the party’s declining performance in public opinion polls.
“He did say to caucus that he had heard very clearly, and listened carefully, to their concerns and he would reflect on it,” newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).
LeBlanc, a close confidant of Trudeau, assumed the finance minister role on Monday while temporarily retaining his position as public safety minister. With several cabinet members holding dual roles due to recent resignations, Trudeau is reportedly preparing for a cabinet reshuffle, potentially as early as Wednesday.
Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson also commented on Trudeau’s response, stating, “A number of my caucus colleagues have said publicly that the prime minister is reflecting on Minister Freeland’s decision and the feedback he heard yesterday. I respect that he is taking time to reflect.”
Trudeau Acknowledges Party Turmoil
At a Liberal Party event marking the end of the parliamentary session on Tuesday night, Trudeau acknowledged the recent challenges. “We really are a big family. Now like most families, sometimes we have fights around the holidays, but of course, like most families, we find our way through it,” he said, garnering some applause.
The Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau had informed Freeland last Friday that she would be replaced by former central banker Mark Carney, who has been advising him on economic issues. Carney, a long-time target for Liberal recruitment, has so far avoided federal politics. Freeland’s office declined to comment on these developments.
If Trudeau steps down, a Liberal leadership race is expected, with Freeland potentially vying for the position. In an email to party volunteers on Tuesday, Freeland hinted at future plans, saying, “this will not be the end of the road,” without offering further details.
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Mounting Challenges for the Liberals
The Liberals’ struggles were underscored by a resounding defeat in a special election in British Columbia, highlighting the party’s waning support. Veteran Liberal MP John McKay urged Trudeau to decide on his political future sooner rather than later, adding pressure on the prime minister.
While Trudeau’s position is secure for now—opposition parties would need to unite for a vote of no confidence, which cannot occur until after Parliament resumes on January 27—the growing unrest among Liberal MPs poses a significant challenge.
Liberal MP Wayne Long, a vocal critic, said, “The prime minister is delusional if he thinks we can continue like this. We’re not just taking on water; we’re underwater.”
The opposition Bloc Québécois has called for an immediate election, arguing that Canada requires a stable government to address pressing issues, including potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports.
Conservatives Poised for Victory
A Nanos Research poll released Tuesday showed the Conservatives commanding 43% public support, with the Liberals at 23% and the New Democrats at 20%. Such a result on Election Day would deliver a decisive Conservative majority, leaving Trudeau’s Liberals facing a grim political future.
